When people talk about "hidden gems of the Sunshine Coast" they usually think about scenery, but there is also a wealth of small businesses tucked away in discrete offices in Gibsons or in homes amid the forests of Roberts Creek.
In celebration of Small Business Month, the Gibsons Chamber of Commerce is showcasing three of these businesses at their Business Social on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at the Gibsons Legion.
The Gibsons Farm Collective is new this year. Three farmers (Backyard Bounty, Green Room Organics and Three Sisters Farm) collaborated on an innovative and efficient way to get produce to their customers — online ordering via their website and a weekly pick-up day.
Farmer Linda Fogarty says: "By sharing in the dirty work, trials and tears, and ample joys and successes, we have become better farmers and even better friends, and in the process brought a wealth of nutritious produce to the table."
Eco Freako has been selling organic cotton products to customers across Canada from their home in Roberts Creek since 2001. Formerly known as Hankettes, they recently rebranded, and their business has taken off. They are looking forward to an exciting new partnership with the Suzuki Foundation.
eMETA Learning Solutions has developed a learning management system designed specifically for the delivery of online professional development, continuing education and training programs. Now with its unique turnkey management business model, eMETA serves clients throughout North America including the National Ski Patrol located in Denver Colorado, Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services and the Engineering Institute of Canada.
The Gibsons Chamber's Business Social is open to anyone interested in business networking, especially business owners and the self-employed. It will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., with wine and cheese and business speed dating, followed by short presentations. Tickets are $10 for Chamber members, $20 for non-members and will be sold at the door.
